We’re excited to welcome the newest Rise cohort—13 founders driving innovation and social impact. From advancing accessibility and sustainability to improving mental wellness and supporting women transitioning from shelters, these changemakers are tackling critical challenges across industries.
Over the next eight months, they’ll refine their ventures, expand their reach, and gain the support needed to scale. Meet the founders and see how they’re shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Amanda Gavigan | Your Partner in Success
Amanda Gavigan helps entrepreneurs, authors, and busy professionals scale their impact and achieve a healthy work-life balance through tailored virtual support services. Her venture specializes in managing administrative, project management, and operational tasks for those who want to scale their impact. This service allows her clients to focus on their core business objectives. Amanda’s commitment to efficiency ensures personalized assistance that drives client success.
Angelique Benois | Nurturing Our Wellbeing Inc.
Angelique Benois is the founder and director of Nurturing Our Wellbeing (N.O.W) Inc. She holds a degree in psychology, a master’s in nursing, and is certified by the Mental Health Commission of Canada as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor. She also completed a “Mental Health in the Workplace” leadership certification through Queen’s University, which positions her as an expert in workplace mental health. She operates N.O.W., a specialized boutique mental wellness consulting firm committed to fostering sustainable holistic self-care that strengthens teams, improves workplace culture, and nurtures closer family connections.
Deena Shaffer | Awakened Learning
Deena Kara Shaffer, PhD, founded Awakened Learning to transform education by providing learning strategy support to students, families, educators, and organizations. Her offerings range from one-on-one coaching to community sessions, keynote presentations, and training programs. A two-time best-selling author and TEDx speaker, Deena is also a two-time President of the Learning Specialists of Canada.
Diana Scott | Scott Children and Youth Services Inc.
Diana Scott founded Scott Children and Youth Services (SCYS) Inc., which offers comprehensive support services to children, youth, and adults. Diana is a child and youth worker and senior clinician with two decades of experience, and she is provincially trained as an IBI Therapist. Through SCYS she offers ABA/IBI therapy, counseling, educational assistance, and life and social skills programs designed to foster resilience, growth, and confidence. With a compassionate, community-driven approach, SCYS strives to make a meaningful impact on individuals and families.
Dyshni Sritharan | Healing Cycles Therapy
Dyshni Sritharan founded Healing Cycles Therapy, a venture dedicated to providing holistic, trauma-informed mental health support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, especially people of colour, through services that integrate movement and connection. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto and a degree in Public Administration and Justice Studies from York University. Dyshni is also a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). Through innovative approaches like walk-and-talk therapy and community-based workshops, Dyshni creates inclusive spaces that prioritize accessibility for marginalized communities to ensure everyone can heal and grow.
Hezekiyah Ysrayl | Elevated Grounds
Bassem Hezekiyah Ysrayl is a life coach, educator, app developer, author, and AI specialist. He is the chief curriculum consultant and founder for Elevated Grounds, an education and wellness consultancy dedicated to human transformation through the fusion of AI technology, emotional intelligence, and ancient wisdom. Elevated Grounds has worked with over 200,000 individuals including children, youth and families through programs that promote wellness, education, and empowerment. The organization serves marginalized communities by fostering personal development, social connection, and sustainable well-being.
Jason Matthew Costa Johnson | Turtle Island Charity
Jason Matthew Costa Johnson is the founder of Turtle Island Charity, an Indigenous-owned organization dedicated to improving mental health, cultural knowledge, and confidence. Jason empowers Indigenous children and youth to overcome barriers and experience new opportunities through play-based programs. He equips them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive.
Karen Bramble | SBK Decor
Karen Bramble is the founder of SBK Decor and Design to Flourish. SBK Decor transforms houses into homes with expert decorating services and curated decor, while Design to Flourish is a social enterprise supporting single mothers transitioning from shelters. Through initiatives like the Design to Flourish Box, Karen combines creativity with impact, creating nurturing environments that promote well-being and sustainable living while helping women embrace fresh starts with confidence and dignity.
Kerrin St.Omer | Self Ease Solutions
Kerrin St. Omer is the founder of Self Ease Solutions, a holistic wellness practice dedicated to mind, body, and soul healing. As a certified Holistic Life Coach from the Mind Body Food Institute, she offers coaching and energy healing. She also holds additional certifications, including Certified Emergency Response Training from CERT.ca and Certified SafeTalk Trainer from LivingWorks. Committed to accessibility, Kerrin offers virtual and in-person services, workshops, and soon, retreats aimed at expanding wellness support for women and underserved communities, fostering transformative healing experiences.
Michelle Jeremie | Epiphaino Pathway Inc.
Michelle Jeremie founded Epiphaino Pathway Inc., a consulting firm dedicated to supporting BIPOC leaders across Canada, the US, and the Caribbean. The firm offers workshops and resources to help them grow professionally and develop their leadership skills. Epiphaino Pathway Inc. also provides personalized coaching, strategic planning, and leadership development, fostering collaboration across generations. With over a decade of experience working with individuals, churches, non-profits, and businesses, Michelle helps leaders align their vision with meaningful community impact. She holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Psychology, a Master of Arts in Worship Studies, and a Doctorate in Ministry specializing in Leadership.
Natalia Pérez Wahlberg | Ormiga Creative
Natalia Pérez Wahlberg is the founder of Ormiga Creative, a creative studio specializing in illustrations and logo design. Her work focuses on raising awareness and educating audiences on the vital role of wildlife in sustaining ecosystems, the health of our planet, and the importance of harmonious coexistence with nature and its inhabitants. Natalia also operates an online shop featuring illustrated products that inspire others to connect with nature. She is the author of Everything is Connected and is currently working on her second book.
Salimah Kassim-Lakha | YogaVision Inc.
Salimah Kassim-Lakha is the founder of YogaVision Inc., a digital wellness platform that offers yoga, meditation, and breathwork programs to support mental well-being. Certified through Amara Yoga School, Salimah supports individuals through group mentoring and coaching. YogaVision is committed to fostering community connection and expanding its impact by establishing learning centres and increasing access to mindfulness practices worldwide.
Silvia Méndez | AHORA CANADÁ
Silvia Méndez is a Mexican Canadian journalist and the founder of AHORA CANADÁ, Canada’s leading Spanish-language digital media platform. With over 10 years of experience, she connects Spanish-speaking audiences through digital TV, podcasts, and targeted marketing campaigns. Silvia is a strong advocate for Latino entrepreneurs and is recognized for her influential voice, supporting Latino cultural initiatives and partnerships.
Rise is a program for social entrepreneurs ready to scale their impact enterprises at an accelerated pace. This project is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). For more information, visit the program page or email us at edge@sheridancollege.ca.
